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Bible Pathways - June 23, 2009

Elihu gets critical and accuses Job of being arrogant (chap. 34). Then, in case Job is forgetful, he reminds him of the justice of God (chap. 35). Elihu keeps talking and reminds Job of the power of God (chap. 36 — 37).

Elihu was even more arrogant toward Job than any of his three friends: What man is like Job, who drinketh up scorning like water? Which goeth in company with the workers of iniquity, and walketh with wicked men. . . . Job hath spoken without knowledge, and his words were without wisdom. . . . For he addeth rebellion unto his sin . . . and multiplieth his words against God (34:7-8,35-37). His accusations against Job demonstrate how foolish our conclusions often are when we see a Christian suffering and we question why God would allow the affliction.

At times we tend to criticize and condemn another's actions when we simply do not know what God is doing or how He is working in that person's heart. Judging another person is a serious sin. It not only robs us of our fellowship with the Lord but places us under His judgment. Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again (Matt. 7:1-2).

When Christians experience disappointments, sufferings, or tragedies, they sometimes become despondent. They feel that God is allowing the natural course of events to play out. As a result, they fail to pray in their times of greatest need. They didn't have the New Testament revelation where God directs us: Is any among you afflicted? let him pray . . . The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:13,16). They also do not realize that God ultimately controls every situation in our lives regardless of how hopeless it may appear. He can and will use it for our good (Rom. 8:28; Gen. 50:20).

Our limited understanding cannot comprehend the infinite love of God, but we may be sure that He is infinitely wise and desires that we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. . . . Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you (Rom. 8:28; I Pet. 5:7).

Thought for Today:

The anointing of God upon the song — "Yes, Lord" — has been a great blessing us every time we sing it in our devotions. The author Jean Lipsius has given permission to let the Pathway family be blessed too.

Christ Revealed:

As the One who watches how we live and what we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Pet. 3:12).

Word Studies:

34:36 for evil men = of evil men; 36:8 holden = held fast; 36:16 no straitness no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined = appointed; gave orders; 36:33 The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapour = His thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach; 37:10 straitened = frozen; 37:22 terrible = awesome.